Hi,
Our plane gets to Madrid about 10 a.m. I'm thinking it will take us until 12 or 1 to clear customs and get to our hotel. We will basically only have 1 1/2 days in Madrid. I am a real history buff and would love to see El Escorial. Do you think it is doable on such a tight schedule? Could I possibly do it that first day?
Thank you,
Kristie
Posted by
Ontario, Canada
4656 posts
Do it first day? Depends on day of the week, and El Escorial hours of operation. You might want to look at checking in late and store luggage at the bus station (if there are lockers). It takes over an hour by bus then you have to make your way there. If you are there Oct - March, the site closes at 6 pm. You 'may' get 3 hours there assuming there is a bus leaving shortly after you arrive at the bus station. Will that be enough? I suspect not.
Posted by
Brisbane, Australia
7175 posts
As much as it is tempting to schedule it on your arrival day I would advise against it. Head there first thing on Day Two. Walk Old Madrid on the afternoon of your arrival. When you return to Madrid after El Escorial, head to the Prado or Royal Palace.
http://www.spain.info/reportajes/una_escapada_a_san_lorenzo_de_el_escorial.html
Day 1
pm...City Walk
Plaza de Oriente
Plaza Mayor
Puerta del Sol
Metropolis Bldg
Plaza de Cibeles
Puerta del Alcala
El Retiro Park
Day 2
am...El Escorial
pm...Royal Palace / Prado Museum